Military Family Appreciation Month

Floor Speech

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Military Family Appreciation Month, a time to honor the families who stand as the true backbone of our military community.

As someone from a proud military family, I know the sacrifices made by those who serve are only possible because of the unwavering support of their families. I enlisted at 18 and served for 24 years from the Vietnam era to the Gulf war, both on Active Duty and in the Reserves.

Throughout my years in the military, I had the privilege of serving alongside five of my eight siblings. My husband and my father also served our country. None of us would have been able to do this without the strength and support of our family.

This month, we celebrate military families, the silent heroes behind every servicemember's success. To all military families, we thank them for their sacrifices and their unwavering commitment to our Nation's freedom.

Recognizing St. Ambrose University Veterans Legacy Project

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the St. Ambrose University Veterans Legacy Project, which is working to cement the legacies of over 25,000 of our veterans at Rock Island Arsenal in the Quad Cities.

Over Veterans Day weekend, I had the pleasure of meeting some of the individuals involved in this essential process. Their team of dedicated volunteers worked diligently to ensure the lives and careers of so many of our veterans are not forgotten.

They document the service and lives of veterans ranging from the Civil War until today. As a veteran, it inspires me to see young people who care so deeply about these personal sacrifices and American history. The detail and level of care which is put into this operation is breathtaking; speaking with friends and families of these servicemen and -women to ensure nothing is forgotten.

Without these men and women, many of whom gave the ultimate sacrifice, we would not be able to enjoy the freedoms we have today. It is my hope that this project can shine a spotlight on veterans' issues and the importance of safeguarding our history. 38th Annual Student Hunger Drive

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the incredible students from over 16 Quad Cities high schools who raised 787,186 meals for the River Bend Food Bank during the 38th annual Student Hunger Drive.

Through their hard work, creativity, and leadership, these students have had a profound impact on their community. By organizing events like penny wars and competing to raise the most meals, they not only provided vital resources but also united the community in their fight against hunger. Every meal they collected will go to those in need.

I am incredibly proud to represent these young leaders in Congress, and I have no doubt they will continue to make a difference in the Quad Cities and beyond. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating them for their dedication and commitment to service. Honoring Jon West

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of Jon West, an exceptional Iowan who passed away far too soon.

Born on May 24, 1971, in Mason City, Jon was a devoted husband to Tammy, father to TJ and Ashley, and grandfather to Rhea Lou and Lyra Jon. He dedicated 30 years to Winnebago Industries, rising from an entry-level position to lead manufacturing engineer where his innovations benefited both the company and his community.

Jon served two terms on the city council of Forest City, showing his deep commitment to giving back. A fourth-generation Iowan, he cherished his heritage and loved farming with friends, Jay and Kevin.

Above all, Jon's greatest joy was his family. His legacy lives on through them and his impact on his community endures.

Jon was a proud Iowan dedicated to his family, his work, and his State. He will be deeply missed. Go Hawks

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, this weekend on Saturday, November 23, the Iowa Hawkeyes play the Maryland Terrapins. Go Hawks. Birthday Wishes to Austin Harris

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I wish a very happy birthday to my good friend, Austin Harris.

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